Product Description

It's Christmas Eve and the fierce storms of the Dust Bowl are sweeping through the Midwest when a small family knocks on the door of Paul's family farmhouse. Their baby is sick, their truck has broken down, and they need shelter for the evening. Paul's grandfather not only welcomes them in, but also offers them dinner and a bed for the night.

Even though it is a season of giving, Paul's heart is not filled with charity, Why should he share what little he has with strangers? Worse, Grandfather warns Paul that he might have to sell his beloved calf to buy a part to fix the truck so the family can take the baby to a doctor.

Angry and afraid, Paul retreats to the barn, where he sleeps and dreams of faraway Bethlehem. What begins as a dream becomes something more—a Christmas journey that will bring Paul peace and help him learn the true meaning of Christmas.

About the Author

Ben Sowards is the illustrator of many well-loved picture books, including A Christmas Dress for Ellen, Seven Miracles that Saved America, and Christmas Oranges.

Ben Sowards teaches others to paint both traditionally and digitally at Southern Utah University, where has directed the illustration program since 2001. He and his wife, Connie, enjoy life with their six daughters and a son in Cedar City, Utah.

Reviews

Average rating:

(based upon 2 reviews)

Make sure to take the time to read this great Christmas story!By Cathy J, Submitted on 2015-12-21

I love Christmas books! I love the feeling you have in your heart after you've read one. I have read many and have many in our home to read to our children. I have to say that this book is one of my favorites that I have read.

I love the illustrations. They are simply beautiful. I love the story that goes with it, the ending of this one brought tears to my eyes. I love the simple lesson that was taught to Paul on that Christmas long ago, but also to us now as we are able to read this book and learn the true meaning of Christmas. I love the selflessness that both Paul's grandfather and Paul are able to show in this short story.

Make sure to take the time to read this great Christmas story, you'll love it!

Beautiful Illustrations!By Andrea, Submitted on 2015-12-15

Asleep on the Hay depicts the true meaning of Christmas in a short and beautiful story that children and adults of all ages can appreciate. With the consumerism abounding around us, it's hard to imagine a time when there were no presents under a tree (or a tree for that matter), and where those around you would be in such dire straits that they'd need to rely on the goodness of strangers giving the last they had to help. This is a good lesson for children to learn, and for adults to remember.

The illustrations are stunning. Mr. Sowards is a truly talented artist. This would be a great book to display during the Christmas season.